2014 DI Top Units: Defense

D-Midfield — The Irish have no shortage of athletes in the defensive midfield. Juniors Jack Near (2G, 1A) and Nick Ossello (5G, 4A) can get up and down the field, defend and generate transition. Senior Matty Collins is also in the mix. Senior Ryan Smith is poised to take over at LSM.

Close D — Notre Dame always has one defender that holds it all down, and this year’s version is senior Stephen O’Hara. O’Hara is the No. 1 cover guy and very aggressive. He will be flanked by senior Brian Buglione (25GBs) and talented sophomore Matt Landis.

Goal — All-America goalie John Kemp has graduated, so Notre Dame will have a new goalie for the first time since 2010. The front runner appears to be junior Conor Kelly. Kelly has patiently waited and his time is now. He is an impressive stopper who is very familiar with the Irish defensive system.